Hershey Experimental Batch: 113-1916

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Background This work explores the perverse interface between bodies and the contemporary media landscape. It is part of my ongoing research into the abject body and technology. It explores representations of the body within the broader field of ‘art and technology.’ The research also draws upon the discourse of media installation art. Contribution Hershey Experimental Batch: 113-1916 is a video work. The underlying research identifies a gap in the knowledge of the relationship of the human body, chocolate and US imperialism in Cuba. The work consists of the construction of a malfunctioning chocolate machine/laboratory. Chocolate here representing both body fluids and representing a kind of failed and dysfunctional experiment of US industry in Cuba. Significance My work was included in the collateral exhibition Intercambio as part of 13th Havana Biennial exhibition, curated by Damian Smith. Intercambio featured the works of 12 Australian artists. Primarily the exhibition was a video exhibition of new works all addressing the theme of the biennial ‘the construction of the possible’. The Havana Biennial is a highly respected international event and one of the world’s leading biennials. Intercambio received funding from Creative Victoria. In addition it received support from The School of Art at RMIT and CAST (Contemporary Art & Social Transformation) in the School of Art. A substantial catalogue was also produced for the event.